The Effect of Saline Gargling on Dry Mouth and Sore Throat in Patients with Thyroidectomy

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of saline gargling on mouth dryness and sore throat for patients with thyroidectomy.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial design was used with 53 participants assigned to either an intervention (n=27, saline gargling) or a control group (n=26, wet gauze). Pre-test dry mouth and sore throat were measured immediately after exiting the ward from OR. Post-test dry mouth and sore throat were measured at 1.50, 3.50, and 5.50 hours after exiting the ward from OR. Comprehensive sore throat was measured 24 hours after surgery. To analyze the data, χ2 test and independent t-test were used.

Results: Subjective dry mouth was lower in the experimental group than the control group (t=−2.19, p=.033). There were no significant differences in the objective dry mouth and sore throat scores between the two groups. The comprehensive sore throat score was lower in the experimental group than the control group (t=−2.65, p=.011).

Conclusion: Saline gargling is expected to be used as a nursing intervention method in patients undergoing thyroidectomy to alleviate the subjective dry mouth after 3.50 hours and sore throat after 5.50 hours and lasting 24 hours.